'He could well be the classiest stayer we've had' - Christian Williams has high hopes for progressive chaser - but Grand National bid unlikely

Christian Williams on the banks of the River Ogmore at the foot of his racing yard Ogmore Farm near Bridgend 2.4.24 Pic: Edward Whitaker

Christian Williams: trainer of Deep CaveCredit: Edward Whitaker (racingpost.com/photos)

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Christian Williams has hailed Deep Cave as one of the "classiest" stayers he has trained but admitted dreams of a Randox Grand National bid may have to wait until next season.

The eight-year-old is a 50-1 chance for Aintree success in April but a rating of 141 means he is unlikely to make the final field of 34, even if he were to strike in Saturday's Ladbrokes Trophy (3.35) at Kempton.

Deep Cave won a handicap hurdle on Aintree's Grand National card last season and has flourished over fences this season, landing a competitive chase at Bangor before following up in Ascot's £100,000 Silver Cup in December.

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James StevensWest Country correspondent

Published on 17 February 2026inBritain

Last updated 11:13, 17 February 2026

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